“We dare not tarry long, O friends,” said Gyges, as he and Psyche seated themselves. “But,” he added, “a cup of wine will refresh us.”
Laughing and talking with their happy friends, the depression of Psyche and Gyges soon vanished. After they had drunk the wine they rose to depart.
“What a handsome chain, O Psyche!” said Elea.
“’Tis a gift of Gyges,” said Psyche.
“Truly, ’tis a perfect gift!” exclaimed Merope.
“Can ye not stay and eat with us?” asked Sulpicius.
“Nay, we must away. Fare ye well, O happy friends! May smiles be always on thy lips!” said Gyges, as he and Psyche went on their way.
“Are they not lovely maidens, O Gyges?” asked Psyche, when they were out upon the Via Appia, walking towards home.
“Ay, my Psyche,” he assented.
“They dance well too,” she added.